Get in shape like a Football Player!

Those winter pounds are best shed by getting active. Since we’re looking for a little motivation ourselves, we thought we’d ask the experts – football players. They may look big, but underneath all that equipment is a strong and finely-tuned fitness machine. They’ll certainly have some tips on how to get motivated!

What’s the Best Way to Get Started?

So guys, how would you get us couch potatoes up and at ‘em?

“I don’t think that signing up for a gym is the right way to go. Start off with some jogging,” recommends Dave. His teammate, Mike, thinks that self-motivation is the key: “If the head isn’t in it, then neither are the muscles.” Both of them agree: “Find a group to work out with, that’s the best way to get started.”

Don’t Starve Yourself

If you’re working out, you have to eat. But what? Professional football players rely on healthy, balanced nutrition with a focus on protein. “From the sports science perspective, it’s really important to keep an eye on your eating habits,” says D’Juan and that he and his teammates make sure to eat light meals: “Yesterday I had a salad and some bread – that’s it!”

I Can’t Be Bothered … So What Now?

There are those days where you think, “Work out? Today? Nahhh,” and that an evening on the couch with a bag of potato chips sounds just right. The footballers all agree – mental motivation is the most important part. “Big” Steve recommends imagining that feeling you have coming home after a 2-hour workout and how good that feels. His teammate Dave agrees: “I think how I would feel if I didn’t go to practice. I’d be angry with myself. I’d rather go to practice, even if I’m not really in the mood for it.”

You’re Less Alone Together

Working out as a group is better. Mike explains that good teammates motivate each other and, when that laziness sneaks in, they get them out the door for a jog. This keeps you from making excuses to not exercise. Another thing that keeps the football players motivated: their fans. “You feel supported. You can never underestimate the motivation that fans give. The positive energy that our fans provide is a huge psychological advantage that is especially helpful during home games.”

So, what motivates you to exercise? What are your favorite sports? And do you agree with what these football players say? Tell us in the comments what you think!